Electronic & Appliance Repair – Applicants
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the license fee?
License fees depend on your license type.
| License Type | License Fee Per Location |
|---|---|
| Appliance Service Dealers (A) | $190 |
| Electronic Service Dealers (E) | $190 |
| Combination Service Dealers (C) | $375 |
| Service Contract Sellers (S) | $95 |
| Service Contract Administrators (SA) | $95 |
Are there exam or education requirements for a license?
No.
Is a separate license needed for repairs and service contract sales?
Yes, you must obtain separate licenses for each type of service.
What type of license do I need if I install/repair car stereos and alarms?
An Electronic Service Dealer license is required to install car stereos and alarms, unless you have a Bureau of Automotive Repair registration.
If you repair either the stereo or alarm equipment, you must have the Electronic Service Dealer license issued by BHGS.
What documentation should I include with my application for a Service Contract Seller or Administrator license?
Service Contract Administrators must submit:
- A copy of a service contract reimbursement insurance policy covering the contracts;
- A copy of the service contract(s) being sold, issued and/or administered;
- A copy of the certificate of qualifications as filed with the Secretary of State if the service contractor is located outside California AND holds a physical location within the State of California; and
- A listing of all clients selling your firm's service contracts.
Service Contract Sellers must submit:
- A copy of the service contract(s) being sold, issued and/or administered;
- A copy of the certificate of qualification as filed with the Secretary of State if the service contractor is located outside California AND holds a physical location within the State of California; and
- Evidence of financial backing – please see last page of application for financial backing alternatives.
Can I include more than one Doing Business As (DBA) on a single license?
No. Each license issued by BHGS must be tied to a single business entity and one DBA name. If you operate under multiple DBAs, a separate license is required for each. Licenses must reflect the DBA name that is publicly displayed and associated with the business.
How can I set up a chain for my business with seven or more locations?
Businesses that operate seven locations or more can request to have their licenses managed as a chain, under a single licensing structure. As a chain, each location is subject to its own license fee and shares the same license expiration date. All official documents, including renewal notices, invoices, license certificates and correspondence, are emailed/mailed to a single contact and designated mailing address.
To initiate the chain licensing process, please contact BHGS at (916) 999-2041, option 2.